“There is no love sincerer than the love of food.”
– George Bernard Shaw, Man and Superman
We all know that food, clothing, and shelter are the basic necessities of life. Without food, we cannot live. However, food is not only a means to give us sustenance. Food epitomizes our culture, history, and tradition. Our culinary preferences embody our evolution.
Like everything, food brands come and go. Very few are able to stand the test of time. However, there are a number of food brands that have endured the ever-evolving market dynamics and have managed to become mainstays. With a savvy business outlook, a number of acquisitions and mergers, and the ability to meet the ever-changing demands of consumers, some food brands have managed to survive for centuries. You would be surprised to know that some of your favorite food brands today have graced the shelves of your great-grandparents.
I did a quick survey of 10 people from different walks of life to know about their opinions about the oldest food brands in the world. Here is the list of the brands they chose and what they think about them.
Brand: Crosse & Blackwell
Year: 1706
Founded in 1706, Crosse & Blackwell is not only London’s oldest food brand specializing in sauces, condiments, and canned foods but also one of the oldest food brands in the world. Known for their quality and flavor, Crosse & Blackwell offers a delectable array of pickles, sauces, chutneys, and relishes. It is no wonder that their traditional recipes and use of high-quality ingredients have made their product a staple in British households for centuries. It is interesting to note that Crosse & Blackwell was the first company ever that supplied tinned food for the British Navy in the 19th century.
Brand: Twinings Tea
Year: 1706
Tea is synonymous with the English. It is no wonder that the oldest tea company still in operation was established in London in 1706. Founded by Thomas Twining, Twinings Tea, has proved itself to be a world-renowned brand. Its signature blends like Earl Grey and English Breakfast are symbols of prestige in households around the world. Their penchant for innovating unique blends and their dedication to providing quality products have made Twinings Tea a symbol of quality and luxury. It is interesting to note that Twinings Tea has been a supplier to every British monarch since 1706.
Brand: Guinness
Year: 1759
We have all heard about Guinness. The Irish beer company was founded by Arthur Guinness in 1759. The Guinness beer is known for its distinct flavor and creamy texture. Over the centuries the brew has proved its mettle and has become an icon of Irish culture. It is interesting to note that the stout that gives Guinness brews their flavor is made from roasted barley.
Brand: G.H. Mumm & Cie
Year: 1761
France is known for its classy champagne. It comes as no surprise that one of the oldest champagne companies in the world originates in Champagne, France. G.H. Mumm & Cie was founded by a trio of brothers in 1761. The champagne offered by this iconic brand is famous for its fruity flavor andfresh effervescence. It is interesting to note that the cellars of G.H. Mumm & Cie have over twenty-five million bottles of champagne, making it one of the largest champagne cellars in the world.
Brand: Baker’s Chocolate
Year: 1765
Who doesn’t love chocolates? All you chocolate lovers out there will be fascinated to know that America’s oldest chocolate brand, Baker’s Chocolate, was founded way back in 1765. Since then, their unsweetened chocolate, baking chocolate squares, and cocoa powder have been staples in American households. It is interesting to note that the American army used Baker’s Chocolate as a source of energy during the Revolutionary War.
Brand: Bass Pale Ale
Year: 1777
Known for its balanced flavor with a hint of subtle bitterness and refreshing finish, Bass Pale Ale was founded in 1777 in Burton upon Trent, England. It is interesting to note that the red triangle logo of Bass Pale Ale is one of the world’s oldest registered trademarks.
Brand: Colman’s
Year: 1814
Founded in 1814 in Norwich, England, the most famous product of Colman’s is their iconic mustard. Their mustard is made from top-quality mustard seeds and has a strong and pungent flavor. This makes it not only the perfect condiment but also an ideal ingredient for cooking. It is interesting to note that Colman’s had the honor of being Queen Victoria’s first mustard supplier in 1866.
Brand: Cadbury
Year: 1824
Cadbury is not only one of the world’s most renowned chocolate brands but also one of the oldest. Established in 1824 by John Cadbury in Birmingham, England, Cadbury has taken chocolate-making to another level and made it into an art form. Introduced in 1905, its iconic Dairy Milk chocolate has been delighting adults and children alike all over the world. I have to say that being a chocolate lover myself, Cadbury is my absolute favorite. It is interesting to note that Cadbury was the very first brand that came up with heart-shaped chocolate boxes for Valentine’s Day.
Brand: Pilsner Urquell
Year: 1842
Anyone who has watched the show, Brooklyn 99, is familiar with Pilsner. It was Pilsner Urquell who first came up with the Pilsner style of beer. Established in Plzen, Czech Republic, in 1842, Pilsner Urquell is the world’s first pale lager. Known for its shiny golden color, balanced flavor, and clean taste, Pilsner Urquell has become the drink of choice for beer enthusiasts around the world. It is interesting to note that Pilsner Urquell was the first company to produce beer using the bottom fermentation method.
Brand: Jacob’s
Year: 1851
Cream Crackers have become a teatime staple for people all over the world. Their clean and crisp taste makes them a fan favorite. It was the Irish company, Jacob’s, that came up with the iconic biscuits. Established by Robert Jacob in 1851 in Dublin, Jacob’s has proved its enduring popularity by providing tasty treats that have been successful in meeting the tastes of generations. It is interesting to note that Jacob’s provided Weetabix biscuits to the British Army during the Second World War.
Conclusion
For centuries, these food brands have made a place in our hearts and lives. They have been instrumental in shaping our tastes. With every bite and sip, these food brands have helped build our heritage and history. Let us all take a moment to honor the legacies of the oldest food brands in the world.
Cast Your Vote
Do vote for your favorite food brand below. The poll closes shortly, so make sure to have your say as soon as you can to make it count.
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Look at that; I have at least one of these in my cupboard!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hahaha! Good for you!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I didn’t know some of these brands were founded so long ago.
LikeLiked by 4 people
It’s fascinating how some brands have stood the test of time, isn’t it? Discovering their rich histories adds an extra layer of appreciation for their enduring presence in the market. Thanks for commenting!
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Yes, well said! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person